This region of natural Tennessee beauty is known predominately for Tims Ford State Park and one of the South’s top recreational lakes, Tims Ford Lake. A premier outdoor hub, Tims Ford is also a destination for small town exploration, one-of-a-kind culinary experiences, and eclectic retail hot-spots.
Located off of Highway 64 lies the town of Winchester, Franklin County’s seat. Known for its bustling downtown district and proximity to the lake, Winchester has the perfect small-town vibe while also giving visitors the amenities of a bigger city. Start the day with coffee in Walnut Hill Coffee Co, then take a stroll around the square and explore antiques at Oakes & Oliver’s or gifts and lake-themed souvenirs at Meshed. Spend the afternoon hiking one of the many trails at Tims Ford State Park, or take in the sunset on a boat tour of Tims Ford Lake.
Up the mountain, the Village of Sewanee is well-known as home to the University of the South, one of Southern Living’s Most Beautiful College Campuses. The gothic architecture and scenic campus trails are an attraction all their own Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the newly minted Head of the Crow State Park: over 4,000 acres of hardwood forests, caves, rare wildlife, and breathtaking scenic overlooks. Whether it's biking the Mountain Goat Trail or perusing handcrafted goods in local shops, Sewanee is for those visitors that are looking to embrace the creative side of adventure.
The Tims Ford area wouldn’t be complete without the smattering of charming small towns that round out the region. Cowan, Decherd, Huntland, and Estill Springs all shine as destinations in their own right In Cowan and Decherd, rich railroad history takes the spotlight. Huntland offers panoramic views of the South Cumberland Plateau and an opportunity to step back in time at Redbucks Mercantile. In Estill Springs, the Elk River feeds into the stunning waters of Tims Ford Lake.
This guide is developed in partnership with the South Central Tennessee Tourism Association and Experience Tennessee. To learn more, visit SCTTA.org or ExperienceTN.com.
Don’t just Travel Tennessee, Experience Tennessee!
RAILROAD TOWN: COWAN.......................
Find more travel information such as business listings, event info, booking links for lodging, itineraries, and local blogs on the official website.
February - Downtown Chocolate Walk
May - High on the Hog Festival
June - Poker Run on Tims Ford Lake
June - Sewanee Summer Music Festival
July - Lights Over the Lake Firework Extravaganza
July - Sewanee 4 of July Celebration th
September - Fall Heritage Festival
October - Heritage Day at Tims Ford State Park
December - ‘Tis the Season Holiday Festival
RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCES
DINING OPTIONS
Drafts & Watercrafts
91 Slip-A Wy, Winchester
A floating bar & grill at Twin Creeks Marina serving seafood, burgers, pizza, and more.
Filo’s Tavern
115 1 Ave NE, Winchester st
A scratch kitchen offering a broad-based, American menu including steaks & seafood.
Orange Blossom Pizzeria
401 Lynchburg Rd, Winchester
A family-owned italian restaurant serving brick oven pizza and classic italian dishes.
Osaka Sushi & Steakhouse
2639 Decherd Blvd, Winchester
A professional Hibachi and Sushi restaurant with skilled chefs at large tappanyaki grills.
Piezan Pizzeria Italiano
44 S Jefferson St, Winchester
A casual italian eatery serving pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, and wine.
Walnut Hill Coffee Company
100 1 Ave NW, Winchester st
Coffee shop set in a historic building serving breakfast, lunch, desserts, and pastries.
Judith Tavern
38 Ball Park Rd, Sewanee
A tavern with high-end fare and a relaxed atmosphere paired with craft cocktails.
Lunch
24 University Ave, Sewanee
Local market and cafe dishing up comfort food and coffee in a cozy setting.
Pigalicious BBQ
501 E Main St, Decherd
Homemade, slow-smoked barbecue with fresh, tasty sides in a relaxed environment.
Sunrise (The Breakfast Place)
42 E Heikens Dr, Decherd
A casual restaurant specializing in pancakes and other homestyle breakfast dishes.
Swiss Pantry
10026 David Crockett Hwy, Belvidere
Unique local bakery and bulk food store specializing in breads, cakes, and donuts.
LODGING OPTIONS
Lakeside Cottages at Twin Creeks
91 Slip-A Wy, Winchester
Cozy, uniquely themed cottages with direct access to Tims Ford Lake.
The Forest RV Resort
4961 Mansford Rd, Winchester
Resort with full service RV spots and direct access to trails at Tims Ford State Park.
Fairview Campground
263 Fairview Campground Rd, Winchester
A peaceful campground on the eastern side of Tims Ford Lake with water access.
Quail Ridge Retreat
190 Quail Ridge Ln, Belvidere
A private, adults-only escape with jaw-dropping views, a starlit hot tub, and more.
The Sewanee Inn
1235 University Ave, Sewanee
A hotel with elegant rooms, plush linens, and views of the 9-hole golf course on site.
THINGS TO DO & OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Tims Ford State Park
570 Tims Ford Dr, Winchester
A 3,546-acre state park home to one of the most scenic lakes in Tennessee.
Twin Creeks Marina & Resort
91 Slip-A Wy, Winchester
A full-service marina on Tims Ford Lake, with boat rentals and a floating restaurant.
Good Game Arcade
110 1st Ave SE, Winchester
A family-friendly hangout on the square with retro and modern games, pool, & more.
Oakes & Oliver’s Antique Market
2 S Jefferson St, Winchester
An antique, home decor, and gift store on the square featuring 50 different vendors. Head of the Crow State Park
198 Natural Bridge Rd, Sewanee
Home to rare species, ancient standstone formations, and remarkable geology.
The University of the South
735 University Ave, Sewanee
A world-class liberal arts college with stunning architecture, founded in 1875.
The Mountain Goat Trail
1129 Tennessee Ave, Sewanee
A world-class liberal arts college with stunning architecture, founded in 1875.
Woody’s Bicycles
90 Reed’s Ln, Sewanee
Offering bike rentals just steps from the scenic Mountain Goat Trail Montana Drive-In
10251 Tullahoma Hwy, Estill Springs
A modern three-screen drive-in movie theatre with a large concession menu. Falls Mill and Museum
134 Falls Mill Rd, Belvidere
A rural historic textile factory built in 1873, now the Museum of Power and Industry. Cowan Railroad Museum
108 S Front St, Cowan
A railroad museum inside the old Cowan Depot with displays, relics, and memorabilia.
DOWNTOWN WINCHESTER
In the heart of Franklin County, downtown Winchester offers a lively mix of history, local flavor, and activities. At the center of it all stands the Franklin County Courthouse, an impressive Art Deco landmark that anchors the square. Around it, broad sidewalks lead past historic storefronts, local dining spots, and businesses that make downtown feel active without feeling rushed.
The buildings on the square carry history, but the people inside them keep the place moving. You can browse for a gift, stop for coffee, meet friends for lunch, or spend a slow afternoon seeing what catches your eye. Downtown Winchester works well for visitors because it does not require much of a plan. Start walking, and the square gives you plenty of reasons to keep going.
Food and drink are a big part of that experience. Filos Tavern offers a from-scratch menu with plenty of variety. Lupita’s Tacos is a good stop for Mexican favorites throughout the day, and Piezan covers the pizza and Italian side of things with a menu that works for families, groups, or an easy casual meal. For something sweet, Southern Sugar Saloon adds ice cream and candy to the mix, and Walnut Hill Coffee Co. gives visitors a place to sit down with a cup of coffee before heading back out.
The shopping downtown has its own personality. HatWRKS mixes recognizable brands with a general store feel, while Meshed brings boutique and gift shopping to the square. Oakes & Olivers Antiques is the kind of stop where it pays to take your time, with vintage pieces and found treasures that make browsing part of the fun. At Abraham Art Gallery, visitors can explore local and international art.
One of Winchester’s best downtown anchors is the Oldham Theater. Located on the north side of the square, the theater originally opened after the Rivoli Theater on the south side closed. George Oldham purchased the building in 1949 and began renovations, but passed away before the work was complete. When it reopened, it carried his name in his memory.
That mix is what gives downtown Winchester its appeal. It is historic, but not frozen in place. You can still catch a movie in a longtime theater, shop in locally owned stores, order a good meal, and walk the same square that has served as a gathering place for generations. For visitors spending time in Franklin County, downtown Winchester is an easy place to begin and an even easier place to linger.
HEAD OF THE CROW STATE PARK SEWANEE
ALL SAINTS’ CHAPEL SEWANEE
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH SEWANEE
“THE CROSS” MEMORIAL OVERLOOK SEWANEE
SEWANEE
Perched high on the Cumberland Plateau, Sewanee offers a setting that feels both elevated and unhurried. Cooler temperatures, quiet roads, and sweeping views set the tone from the moment you arrive. It is a place where visitors are encouraged to slow down, take in the scenery, and spend time outdoors, all while enjoying the charm of a close-knit village community.
Sewanee is best known as the home of The University of the South, a campus that has earned national recognition for its beauty. Founded in 1857, the university sits on more than 13,000 acres known as “The Domain,” making it one of the largest college campuses in the country. Its Gothic architecture, stone buildings, and expansive green spaces create a setting that feels both historic and peaceful. Walking through campus is an experience in itself, with tree-lined paths, open quads, and scenic overlooks appearing around nearly every corner.
Beyond the campus, Sewanee is a destination for outdoor adventure. Trails stretch in every direction, offering access to rugged landscapes, shaded forests, and dramatic bluff views. Hikers and bikers can explore routes that pass through quiet ravines, cross stone bridges, and lead to overlooks that showcase the natural beauty of the plateau. Waterfalls can be found throughout the surrounding area, especially after rainfall, adding another layer to the landscape.
The Mountain Goat Trail adds another option for those looking to explore at a more relaxed pace. This paved path follows a former rail line and provides an easy route for walking and biking, connecting parts of the plateau while offering scenic views along the way. It is a great way to experience Sewanee without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Between outdoor excursions, the village of Sewanee offers a welcoming place to pause and recharge. Local cafes and gathering spots provide a comfortable setting to relax before heading back out. Lunch is a popular stop for a midday meal, while Judith offers a more refined dining experience in the evening. Both have gained attention beyond the region, reflecting the growing culinary presence in this small mountain town.
The university, the trails, the overlooks, and the village all exist within close reach of one another. It is easy to spend the morning hiking to a scenic bluff, the afternoon exploring campus, and the evening enjoying a quiet meal, all without ever leaving the mountain. For visitors looking to combine outdoor adventure with a sense of place, Sewanee offers a refreshing and memorable experience.
HEAD OF THE CROW STATE PARK SEWANEE
STATE PARKS
Franklin County offers two distinct outdoor experiences, giving visitors the chance to enjoy both water-based recreation and rugged mountain terrain. Tims Ford State Park and Head of the Crow State Park each showcase a different side of the region’s natural beauty.
Tims Ford State Park centers around one of Tennessee’s most scenic lakes. Known for its clear water and more than 250 miles of shoreline, Tims Ford Lake is a favorite for boating, fishing, and relaxing days on the water. It is especially popular among anglers, with bass and striped bass fishing that consistently ranks among the best in the Southeast.
The park also offers plenty to explore on land. Visitors will find nearly seven miles of unpaved hiking trails, along with about 24 miles of bike trails that are also open to hikers. Some trails begin near the visitor center, while others wind along the shoreline, offering steady views of the lake. The layout makes it easy to plan anything from a short walk to a full day of activity. Campgrounds and cabins add to the experience, making Tims Ford a great option for an overnight stay.
Head of the Crow State Park provides a different kind of outdoor setting. Spanning more than 4,000 acres, this park brings together several protected natural areas into one large, undeveloped landscape. It is a place for visitors who want a quieter, more immersive experience in nature.
The park includes Sherwood Forest State Natural Area, which protects rare plant and animal species, along with the Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lee Carter State Natural Area, known for its extensive cave system. In this area, streams disappear underground and travel for more than a mile before reemerging at Buggytop Cave, one of the park’s most unique features.
Another highlight is Natural Bridge State Natural Area, where a 25-foot-high sandstone arch stretches across a scenic overlook of Lost Cove. Nearby, Hawkins Cove State Natural Area protects plant life found only on the Cumberland Plateau, adding to the park’s ecological importance.
Hiking is the primary way to explore Head of the Crow, with trails that lead through forests, across varied terrain, and to scenic overlooks. The park’s natural features, including caves and unique rock formations, create a sense of discovery that feels very different from the open water views at Tims Ford.
Together, these parks offer a well-rounded outdoor experience. Both highlight the natural diversity that makes Franklin County a standout destination for outdoor travel.
COWAN RAILROAD MUSEUM
COWAN
MOUNTAIN GOATTRAIL
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DOWNTOWN COWAN
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COWAN RAILROAD MUSEUM
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RAILROAD TOWN: COWAN
Tucked against the edge of the Cumberland Plateau, Cowan, Tennessee, is more than just a quiet railroad town. It is one of the most historic transportation hubs in the state and a gateway to one of Tennessee’s most exciting outdoor recreation projects. The Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad Trail begins in Cowan, where the echoes of steam engines and mountain railroading still shape the community today.
Cowan’s railroad story dates back to the mid-1800s during the construction of the Cumberland Mountain Tunnel, located just two miles southeast of town. Completed in 1852, the tunnel was considered a major engineering achievement of its time and helped connect Nashville to Chattanooga by rail. As the railroad expanded, Cowan quickly became a vital stop along the route.
Built in 1904, the Cowan Railroad Depot served passengers traveling between Nashville and Chattanooga during the golden age of rail travel. In 1976, the historic wood-frame structure was moved across the railroad tracks to preserve it for future generations. Today, the depot houses the Cowan Railroad Museum, where visitors can step back into Tennessee’s railroad past through historic photographs, railroad tools and equipment, costumes and uniforms, maps, documents, books, and memorabilia.
Cowan also serves as an important connection point for the growing Mountain Goat Trail, a regional rails-to-trails project reclaiming the historic Mountain Goat Railroad corridor. From 1856 until 1985, the Mountain Goat Railroad carried coal and passengers between Palmer and Cowan across Grundy and Franklin Counties atop the Cumberland Plateau. The route earned its nickname because the climb onto the plateau was considered one of the steepest railroad ascents in the world.
Today, the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance is working to transform that abandoned rail corridor into a 35-plus-mile multiuse recreational trail connecting seven communities across two counties. Several sections are already open and heavily used by walkers, runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, including a paved six-mile section between Sewanee and Monteagle and another six-mile section between the DuBose Center in Monteagle and downtown Tracy City.
The future of the Mountain Goat Trail continues to expand, with new trail segments connecting Sewanee to Cowan and Tracy City toward Coalmont expected to begin construction in 2026. As the trail grows, Cowan remains an important anchor point where Tennessee’s railroad heritage and outdoor adventure intersect.
